An analysis of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) data by the Associated Press indicates that President Donald Trump has taken longer on average to approve disaster aid requests than any president since 1989. Since taking office last year, Trump has approved approximately 65 major disaster declarations while denying more than two dozen. The average approval time under the current administration is approximately six weeks, compared to an average of three weeks during Trump’s first term and the Biden administration.
The data also shows a statistical difference in approval rates based on political affiliation. During his second term, Trump has approved 80% of disaster requests from Republican governors and approximately 60% from Democratic governors. When categorized by 2024 election results, the president approved more than 75% of requests from states he won, compared to less than 50% from states he did not. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson denied any politicization, stating the administration conducts thorough reviews to ensure tax dollars are used as a supplement to, rather than a substitute for, state obligations.
Democratic lawmakers from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York issued statements criticizing recent denials for February snowstorm aid, characterizing the decisions as partisan. In contrast, the White House maintained that the administration’s process is designed to ensure efficient and appropriate use of federal resources. The delays in approval impact how quickly individuals can access funds for lodging and repairs, as well as how local governments plan for infrastructure debris removal.
FEMA is currently undergoing leadership transitions, having been led by four different acting directors since January 2025. The administration is also reportedly considering reforms to how the agency administers aid, as federal law specifies that major disaster declarations are intended for events that exceed the combined resources of state and local governments.